I am a pure amateur and amateur photographer and have always fotogafiert with a Canon. Previously I used a SRL, but then rose to compact cameras around, because I wanted to make more snapshots of my kids and did not want to always carry around a comprehensive rental equipment with me. Still, I wanted a compact camera that makes a lot of possibilities of open and diverse settings same time, allows good photos with the predefined modes. After I was very pleased with the Canon SX100IS, I have the SX20 IS gained me due to the larger zooms three months ago. In addition, I have the suitable batteries from Canon - which are very persistent -, the Speedlite 270EX, a skylight filter 1A and a Circular Polarizer (52mm, thread is present on the lens) bought and am pretty well equipped. At first I was very skeptical, since then, many reviews - that sounded very professional - were negative. Meanwhile, I have made many recordings with the SX20 and tried all manual settings and preset modes. My conclusion is that the camera takes very good pictures. Sure, not every photo of the hammer, but that is not on the line, but to the wrong choice of modes or settings, or simply at the wrong screen layout. Today I am glad that I have this camera and the specialized press have trusted more than the Rezensoren. The major advantages of the camera are the swiveling display - which is very useful not only for overhead shots, but also in strong sunlight - and the optical viewfinder. Also, the hot shoe is advantageous because it really makes a difference when using an external flash unit, and does not need to flash always right. As a disadvantage right at the camera, I see only the lens cover. The attachment could Canon can solve better, especially as it is on other devices by Canon also achieved better. Moreover, it would not be a disadvantage, in addition to spendieren SX20 a hand strap. All in all, the Canon PowerShot SX20 IS in my eyes a mere recommendation to buy value.
